Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew

Name: Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

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I absolutely love making this Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew when I need a hearty yet comforting meal. The combination of aromatic spices and creamy texture makes it a delightful dish that fills the home with wonderful smells. My favorite part is how easy it is to whip up, yet it looks and tastes gourmet. With the lentils providing incredible richness and body, it’s not only nutritious but also incredibly filling. This stew is perfect for cozy evenings or when you want to impress friends and family with minimal effort!

Created by

Celia Winterbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:37:35.310Z

When I first tried making a lentil stew, I was amazed at how such a simple ingredient could transform into a comforting and filling dish. Using tomatoes as a base not only adds a vibrant color but also a depth of flavor that brings everything together beautifully. I experimented with different spices, and that’s when I discovered the secret weapon: a pinch of smoked paprika. It truly elevates the stew!

I've learned that letting the stew simmer allows the lentils to absorb all the flavors while becoming tender. The addition of cream at the end gives it that luscious richness I crave. Plus, I always top it off with freshly chopped herbs for a pop of freshness. It’s a dish I know I can always count on!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that warms you from the inside out
Hearty lentils packed with protein and flavor
Easy to make and perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Understanding Lentils

The choice of lentils in this Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew is crucial for achieving the desired texture and flavor. Green or brown lentils are ideal as they hold their shape during cooking, offering a delightful bite. They are rich in protein and fiber, making them a wholesome addition to your diet. When rinsing lentils, ensure you thoroughly check for any small stones or debris, which is a common issue. This simple step helps maintain the integrity of your stew and ensures a pleasant eating experience.

Cooking lentils to the perfect tenderness is key to a delicious stew. When simmering, keep an eye on the lentils after the 20-minute mark. While they typically take about 30 minutes to become tender, the actual timing might vary based on their age and type. If you notice the stew becoming too thick, simply add a splash more vegetable broth to maintain the creamy consistency. This helps the flavors meld beautifully without losing that comforting mouthfeel.

Achieving Creaminess

The heavy cream added at the end of cooking not only contributes a luxurious texture but also mellows the acidity of the tomatoes. When incorporating the cream, make sure to heat the stew gently, stirring consistently. Bringing the mixture to a boil after adding the cream can risk curdling and affect the dreaminess you’re aiming for. If you're lactose intolerant, consider substituting with coconut cream; it will still lend a creamy texture while adding a hint of tropical sweetness.

For an extra layer of flavor, you can experiment by adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar when stirring in the cream. This adjustment can balance the flavors, especially if your tomatoes lean towards the acidic side. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before serving to ensure the perfect flavor profile tailored to your palate.

Serving and Variations

This stew is delightful enjoyed on its own or accompanied by a warm crusty bread for dipping. For added nutrition, serve over a bed of quinoa or rice, which complements the lentils beautifully. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or vegan cheese can elevate the dish further, giving it that gourmet touch. The choice of garnishing with fresh basil leaves not only provides a pop of color but also a burst of fresh flavor, making each bowl visually appealing.

Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients! Adding vegetables like carrots, spinach, or bell peppers can enhance both the color and nutritional value of the stew. If you’re looking to spice things up, consider incorporating a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes during the sautéing phase. This will introduce a lovely kick that contrasts beautifully with the creaminess of the stew.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for a delicious meal.

Main Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup heavy cream
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

With these ingredients, you're just a step away from the perfect stew!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create the stew.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Add Cream

Stir in the heavy cream and heat through for an additional 5 minutes to combine the flavors.

Serve

Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Enjoy your delicious creamy tomato lentil stew!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider incorporating some diced carrots or celery when sautéing the onions. You could also substitute coconut cream for the heavy cream if you're looking for a dairy-free option!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Creamy Tomato Lentil Stew stores well and can be made ahead of time. Once cooled, transfer it into airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors will deepen, making leftover servings even tastier. For longer storage, consider freezing the stew. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Just remember to leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion as it freezes.

When reheating, you can add a little vegetable broth to loosen the stew back to your desired consistency. Heat it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even warming. If the stew has thickened too much in the fridge, this addition will help achieve that perfect creamy texture once again.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find your stew too thick after simmering, don't worry! This can happen depending on how long the lentils take to cook. Add more vegetable broth, a half-cup at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. If the flavors seem flat, consider adjusting with additional spices or a dash of salt to enhance the overall taste. Taste testing throughout the cooking process is essential, ensuring each element shines.

In the case that the stew turns out too acidic owing to the tomatoes, you can balance it with a small amount of sugar or a splash of cream. This not only counters the acidity but also enriches the overall flavor profile. Remember, cooking is all about adjustment and finding what works best for your taste preferences!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew ahead of time?

Yes, this stew can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I freeze the stew?

Absolutely! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over a bed of rice or quinoa for a more filling meal.

→ Is this stew vegan?

To make the stew vegan, simply substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or a non-dairy alternative.